Below is a summary adapted from this blog page: about a great opportunity for researchers contemplating 'going cloud'.

Internet2 CLASS and Microsoft Azure are collaborating to offer the research / education community the opportunity to join the Azure Accelerator Program for Research. Applications will be accepted until September 10, and award notifications follow on September 20. Faculty researchers and IT professionals from Internet2 member institutions are eligible to apply to the program. The program itself begins October 5. 

The Azure Accelerator Program for Research program is an opportunity to spend two months exploring the power of cloud computing, including the vast array of built-in data science tools and services that Azure provides. The idea is to draw inspiration from your computing environment, your workflows and your research focus; and bring that together with the program emphasis: On machine  learning, deep learning, and image processing and analysis.

There are many advantages to participating (see that blog linked above); but to note three aspects of particular value: Your cloud costs are covered by a credit grant, (second) you have Solutions Architects facilitating learning and building working systems on Azure, and (third) you participate in a cohort learning environment, learning together with your colleagues.

For more information about requirements and selection criteria: download the Call for Applications.

For other questions please contact Amanda Tan, Internet2 program manager, CLASS, at class@internet2.edu.